Baseball season is upon us. The fields are raked, the grass watered, and pitchers and catchers are gearing up for another exciting year in Major League Baseball. Things are no different for the New York Mets, who are looking to rise above the mediocrity that has plagued the team for the past few years. Since the 2006 Mets squad that reached the National League Championship Series, New York has posted a 477-495 record (.491). During that time period, the Amazin’s have only finished above .500 twice. Younger talent is starting to make its way through the Mets organization as the team hopes for an improvement.
Offseason Positive: New York was able to sign veteran third-baseman David Wright to a long-term extension over the winter. Wright agreed to an eight-year, $138 million deal with New York in December. This almost guarantees that the face of the franchise will be with the Mets until the end of his career. Wright’s above-average defense and powerful bat will give New York something to lean on in the future. Wright also brings leadership to the locker room—a key aspect in any successful franchise.
What Has to Change: The Mets are notorious for starting off the season red hot and then flopping just after the All Star Break. With a little bit more consistency, the Mets could be contenders for a playoff spot.
Attendance at Mets’ home games has declined over the years. Fans need to keep in mind that their support is a vital part of the team’s success. No, the Mets aren’t going to go 162-0, but seeing Citi Field just a little more packed would go a long way in the locker room. It would also go a long way in the media, where New York has become somewhat of a laughing stock.
Key Players: Keep an eye out for Ike Davis this season. When Davis gets on a roll, he is an offensive threat. The Mets need his bat in the lineup to go with David Wright’s power. Matt Harvey, a young pitching prospect, will be thrown into the mix this season. Harvey has great stuff on the mound and, if he stays healthy, will be a nice addition to New York’s rotation. Johan Santana and Jon Niese have to produce on the mound this year for the Mets to be successful, as well.
Projected Lineup: C – John Buck 1B – Ike Davis 2B – Daniel Murphy 3B – David Wright SS – Ruben Tejada LF – Mike Baxter/Jordany Valdespin CF – Kirk Nieuwenhuis RF – Lucas Duda
Bold Statement: The Mets will make a push for the NL Wild Card this season.
Predicted Record: 85-77
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